Virginia Beach – A night out at The Rustic Spoon on Pleasure House Road turned into a frightening ordeal on Wednesday when a driver mistakenly put his car in drive, rode up the curb, and barreled through the patio fence. The vehicle struck a metal railing and rolled onto the table where two women were seated.
Quick response saves life
Co‑owner Ryan Hines described the chaos, noting that a gentleman was parked in a handicapped spot before the driver accelerated forward. “He went up the curb over the bike rack, knocked over the metal railing, and then ran over the table where the two ladies are sitting,” Hines said.
Surveillance video, later shared on the restaurant’s social media, shows the car pinning one of the women beneath its chassis. Bystanders rushed to help while others called 911. Hines, who lives about 15 minutes away, arrived shortly after first responders had secured the scene and begun rescue efforts.
First responders act swiftly
Firefighters lifted the vehicle and extracted the trapped patron. “The fire department jacked the car up quickly and got the lady out from under the car,” Hines reported.
Medical personnel evaluated both the driver and the woman. Both underwent CAT scans; the woman suffered a massive facial laceration but no internal bleeding or broken bones. “At the end of all of it, graced by God, she walked away and went home that night,” Hines said, calling her survival a miracle.
Investigation continues
Police say the incident appears accidental, and the driver remained at the scene. Virginia Beach police are investigating the cause of the driver’s error.
Hines said the restaurant intends to offer the two women a free meal when they feel comfortable returning, though he noted the patio may not be the setting for that offering.
Community reaction
Local residents expressed relief that the woman escaped serious injury. The incident underscores the importance of rapid emergency response and the resilience of the Virginia Beach community.
Authorities remind drivers to use caution in crowded areas and to verify gear selection before moving a vehicle. The Rustic Spoon plans to review its patio safety measures to prevent future accidents.
Original reporting: WTKR News 3 (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
